Travel Demand Management Study - Mopani District Municipality September 2010
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Travel Demand Management Study Mopani District Municipality September 2010 25 Thabo Mbeki Street 2ND Floor The Mall Building POLOKWANE 0700 (015) 295 3053 (T) (015) 295 3076 (F)
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 PROJECT NAME: Travel Demand Management Study in Mopani and Capricorn District Municipalities PROJECT NO: DATE: REPORT STATUS: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Final CARRIED OUT BY: COMMISSIONED BY: SSI Engineers and Environmental Consultants Department of Roads & Transport: Limpopo Province P O Box 1377 Private Bag X 9483 POLOKWANE POLOKWANE 0700 0700 Tel: (015) 295 1000 Tel: (015) 295 3053 Fax: (015) 295 1163 Fax: (015) 295 3076 AUTHORS: CLIENT CONTACT PERSON: Mr Ntate Mabilo Mr H de Beer Mr Dick Pyke Ms Melanie Wright Ms Marciana Abavana SYNOPSIS: A TDM Study was undertaken for Capricorn and Mopani District Municipalities. This study included a desktop study of available documents, stakeholder analysis and proposed business plans. *COPYRIGHT : SSI ENGINEERS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS (PTY) LTD QUALITY VERIFICATION This report has been prepared under the controls established by a quality management system that meets the requirements of ISO 9001 : 2000. Verification Capacity Name Signature Date By Authors Traffic Engineers DP,MW,MA Checked and Principal Josias Mabilo Authorised by List of Acronyms SSI Engineers Page i
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Acronym Meaning BRT Bus Rapid Transit CBD Central Business District CPTR Current Public Transport Record HOV High Occupancy Vehicle IDP Integrated Development Plan IRPTN Integrated Rapid Public Transit Network ITP Integrated Transport Plan ITS Intelligent Transport Systems MDM Mopani District Municipality NLTSF National Land Transport Spatial Framework NMT Non Motorized Transport OLS Operating License Strategy PLTF Provincial Land Transport Framework PT Public Transport RNMS Road Network Management System RTQS Road Traffic Quality System SADC South African Development Community SDF Spatial Development Framework SDI Spatial Development Initiative SMME Small Medium Enterprise TDM Travel Demand Management TSM Travel Supply Management ZCC Zion Christian Church SSI Engineers Page ii
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Table of Contents Executive Summary 1. Project Background ................................................................................................... 1 2. Introduction to Travel Demand Management (TDM) ................................................ 1 3. Travel Demand Strategies ......................................................................................... 2 4. Project Methodology .................................................................................................. 2 5. Stakeholders Consulted ............................................................................................ 3 6. Literature Review ....................................................................................................... 3 7. Public Transport Status Quo (Based On Literature Review) ................................... 4 7.1 Taxi .............................................................................................................................. 4 7.1.1 Taxi Associations .................................................................................................. 5 7.2 Bus ............................................................................................................................... 5 7.3 Rail ............................................................................................................................... 6 7.4 Air ................................................................................................................................ 6 8. Road Infrastructure Status Quo (Based On Literature Review) .............................. 6 9. TDM Related Problems Identified (Based On Literature Review) ............................ 8 9.1 TDM Issues Identified in Mopani .................................................................................. 8 9.1.1 Public Transport .................................................................................................... 8 9.1.2 Roads ................................................................................................................... 8 9.1.3 Road Safety Issues ............................................................................................... 8 10. TDM Interventions Required (Based On Literature Review) .................................... 8 10.1 Transport ...................................................................................................................... 8 10.2 Infrastructure ................................................................................................................ 9 10.3 Non-motorized Transport (NMT) ................................................................................. 10 10.4 Institutional ................................................................................................................. 10 11. Stakeholder Consultation ........................................................................................ 10 11.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................ 10 11.1.1 Road network management system: ................................................................... 11 11.1.2 Public transport ................................................................................................... 11 11.1.3 NMT .................................................................................................................... 11 11.1.4 Awareness and communication .......................................................................... 11 11.2 Road Network ............................................................................................................ 11 11.3 Traffic Signals ............................................................................................................ 14 SSI Engineers Page iii
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 11.4 Public Transport ......................................................................................................... 14 11.5 NMT ........................................................................................................................... 15 11.6 Law Enforcement and Road Safety ............................................................................ 16 11.7 Awareness and Communication ................................................................................. 16 11.8 Schools ...................................................................................................................... 17 12. Recommendations ................................................................................................... 17 Annexure A............................................................................................................................. 19 Annexure B ............................................................................................................................. 28 1. Public Transport Strategy 2007 ............................................................................... 29 2. IRPTN ........................................................................................................................ 30 3. Mopani District Municipality ITP 2006-2011 ............................................................ 30 4. MOPANI IDP 2010 ..................................................................................................... 34 5. Limpopo Provincial Land Transport Framework 2007 ........................................... 34 Annexure C ............................................................................................................................. 41 Annexure D ............................................................................................................................. 47 Annexure E ............................................................................................................................. 53 List of Tables Table 7.1: Major Public Transport Facilities in the Mopani District .............................................. 4 Table 7.2: Taxi Associations in Mopani ...................................................................................... 5 Table 7.3: Subsidised Bus Service Providers in Mopani District Municipality ............................. 5 Table 8.1: Total Distances (km) of roads in the Mopani District .................................................. 7 List of Figures Figure 8.1: Strategic Development Corridors in Mopani District ................................................. 7 Figure 11.1: Dangerous bend in Giyani southeast of traffic circle (location) ............................. 13 Figure 11.2: Dangerous bend in Giyani southeast of traffic circle (zoomed in) ......................... 13 SSI Engineers Page iv
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Travel Demand Management Study Executive Summary 1. INTRODUCTION: The department of Roads and Transport: Limpopo Province appointed SSI Engineers and Environmental Consultants (Pty) LTD to undertake a Travel Demand Management Study, covering Capricorn and Mopani district municipalities. Travel Demand Management is an intervention to influence travel decisions so that more desirable transport, social, economic and environmental objectives can be achieved, thereby reducing the negative impact of travel. TDM is mainly concerned with managing traffic congestion. However, due to the predominantly rural nature of Limpopo Province, the focus of TDM in this study is widened to cover the harmonization of travel in the rural areas and the smaller towns. The study included review of literature, stakeholder consultations, physical observation of identified areas of concern and specialist analysis of the information gathered, arriving at identified strategies for intervention and recommendations on how the issues may be addressed. Business plans for further and detailed intervention studies were compiled and they form part of this report. The plans are meant to guide interventions, resulting in specific programmes and projects. This report is in respect of Travel Demand Management in Mopani District Municipality. 2. FINDINGS: The study findings were summarised as outlined below. Most of the problems can be addressed together through the recommended detailed studies at the local sphere of government as they require street by street surveys in all towns and villages. For these types of challenges, further studies are recommended, supported by business plans. The main travel demand challenges point to the following: There is a need for improvement of the road network. There is insufficient public transport in the rural villages. There is a serious shortage of Non- Motorized Transport infrastructure and facilities. Traffic signal management require attention. The permanent flashing signals in Tzaneen are in contravention of the law. There is traffic congestion mainly in Tzaneen during peak hours. The need for road safety awareness. Lack of fences on roads leading to stray animals causing accidents. SSI Engineers Page v
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 3. RECOMMENDATIONS: A series of recommendations were developed based on the identified concerns. These recommendations comprised a set of Business Plans and individual responses to specific areas of concern. The Business Plans were prepared in stand-alone format, but are included in the report. It is recommended as follows: A road management system for future years (i.e 5 year period) should be introduced and maintained. An optimum traffic signal plan for traffic signals controlled intersections need to be prepared. A Non- Motorised Transport Study covering all towns and villages in the district need to be undertaken to cater for NMT facilities and services. A road safety plan should be developed and communicated through road shows. There is a need for a Public Transport Demand study to be conducted to determine public transport requirements, route network, facilities and the effectiveness and efficiency of the current system. A detailed Travel Demand Management study need to be conducted for Tzaneen on a street by street basis. The road between Tzaneen and Burgersdorp need to be widened and maintained. Provide HOV lane to mitigate the congestion and accidents. Implement traffic calming at bend south east of traffic circle at entrance to Giyani. Fencing of roads to prevent stray animals. Provide sufficient bus ranking facilities in Giyani. Improve quality of work on the repair of potholes throughout the district. Traffic signals in Giyani needs attention. Provide public transport facilities and amenities in Hoedspruit. Public transport in Hoedspruit need government support to cater for seasonal demand fluctuations. We recommend the contracting and subsidisation with bus services. The Deerpark junction outside Tzaneen on the road to Phalaborwa requires traffic lights to assist traffic coming to Tzaneen particularly in the mornings. A traffic circle or traffic lights on the Tzaneen to Aqua Park and Polokwane to Phalaborwa roads junction is recommended. The permanent flashing traffic lights in Tzaneen should be addressed as it is in contravention with the spirit of the law. SSI Engineers Page vi
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 4. CONCLUSION: Thanks to the foresight of the department of Roads and Transport, this study will go a long way towards improving and harmonising travel in Mopani District Municipality. The above is a summary of the findings made and the recommended interventions. We thank the officials of the Department of Roads and Transport, Mopani District Municipality and all the stakeholders consulted including the Transport Forum of Mopani. The above and the representatives of the local municipalities made this study possible. Their cooperation is appreciated. SSI Engineers Page vii
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 1. Project Background SSI Engineers and Environmental Consultants were appointed by the Limpopo Provincial Government, Department of Roads and Transport to undertake a Travel Demand Management (TDM) study for the Capricorn and Mopani Districts of Limpopo Province. Limpopo Province consists of five districts and the demographics of Limpopo are summarized in the following table: Table 1.1: Size and Population per District DISTRICT SIZE OF DISTRICT POPULATION UNEMPLOYMENT (KMsq) SIZE RATE Capricorn 1 697 030 1 154 690 42% Sekhukhune 1 326 4 1 024 748 69% Vhembe 21 407 1 199 880 65% Waterberg 4 951 9 614 158 31% Mopani 15 706 1 062 780 45% Due to the differences between the two districts, it was decided that a separate report would be produced for each of the two districts included in the study. This report relates to the Mopani District. Mopani district has the following objectives: To become the “Food Basket of South Africa”; To become the “Tourism Destination of Choice”. According to the National Public Transport Strategy the Strategic Goals for Public Transport in urban areas are, among others: Over 85% of population should be within 1km of Public Transport Corridor; 20% of car work trips should shift to public transport; Door-to-door journey time to be less than 60 minutes in urban areas. 2. Introduction to Travel Demand Management (TDM) Travel Demand Management is an intervention to change travel decisions (without major infrastructure improvements), so that more desirable transport, social, economic and/or environmental objectives can be achieved, thereby reducing the negative impact of travel. The TDM strategies are intended to reduce the demand for single occupancy vehicle trips. Implementation of TDM can: Reduce highway congestion and traveler delay; Improve air quality; and Improve access to jobs, schools and other opportunities; Reduce accidents and fatalities. TDM is mainly concerned with managing traffic congestion. However, due to the predominantly rural nature of Limpopo Province, the focus of TDM in this study is widened to cover the SSI Engineers Page 1
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 harmonization of travel in the rural areas and the smaller towns. 3. Travel Demand Strategies There are many Travel Demand Management (TDM) strategies that are available and that can be introduced in order to achieve improvements in transport. TDM Strategies that can be adopted, include interventions such as: Promoting Non-motorized Transport (NMT); Upgrading public transport; Promoting the use of Public Transport; Making public transport affordable; Making private transport expensive; Active trip reduction programs; Car parking controls on availability and pricing; Providing “real time” traffic and parking information; Traffic signal co-ordination; Public education; Introducing staggered working hours to avoid peak travel periods; Implementing Road Access Management; Introducing exclusive Bus or High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes; Re-routing freight and delivery vehicles to avoid congested areas; Improving road signage (to SA Road Traffic Signs Manual standard); Accommodating “special needs” road users; Controlling development. 4. Project Methodology The methodology adopted for the study is based on a series of individual tasks, which need to be undertaken in a specific order. The tasks undertaken for this project can be summarized as follows: Set up Project Steering Committee; Obtain relevant documentation; Study available documentation; Determine relevant stakeholders / transport forums; Interview relevant stakeholders / forums; Identify transport related areas of concern that need intervention; Undertake field observation of areas of concern; SSI Engineers Page 2
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Analysis of all information gathered. Identify suitable TDM measures; Develop TDM Plan to address the areas of concern. The success of the project largely dependends on the successful interaction with stakeholders. It is very important that the concerns of the relevant stakeholders should be accurately determined, in order to guide the progress of the project to a successful conclusion. 5. Stakeholders Consulted A list of relevant stakeholders was prepared in consultation with officials from the Limpopo Provincial Government Department of Roads and Transport. These stakeholders include the following: Local authority (engineers, town planners); District Taxi Council; Bus operators; Bus operator‟s Task Team; Local Business Chamber; Commuter Association; Provincial Department of Roads & Transport; Provincial Department of Health & Social Development; Department of Education; South African Police Service; Traffic Police (municipal/provincial); Department of Health; Emergency Services; Department of Sports, Arts & Culture; Department of Economic Development, Environment & Tourism. Selected representatives from each of the above stakeholder categories were invited to attend interview sessions, where transport related concerns were identified. It was decided to restrict the number of attendees at these interview sessions to a minimum in an attempt to obtain the most meaningful interaction with the stakeholder. 6. Literature Review Travel Demand Management is supported by literature, at international, national, provincial and local levels. This became evident in the National policy and strategies, particularly the National Public Transport Strategy of 2007 and it‟s Action Plan as well as the Provincial Land Transport Framework and the Integrated Transport Plan of Mopani. SSI Engineers Page 3
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 The following documents were obtained from various sources in the Limpopo Province: Mopani Integrated Development Plan (IDP); Mopani Integrated Transport Plan (ITP); Mopani Spatial Development Framework (SDF); National Public Transport Action Plan Final; National Public Transport Strategy Final; Limpopo Provincial Land Transport Framework (PLTF). These documents were studied in detail and the issues that are relevant to Travel Demand Management were identified. The status quo of transport in the district and the relevant TDM issues that were identified, are presented in this report. A Car Ownership and User study was recently commissioned by the National Department of Transport. Unfortunately the Car Study has not been completed and permission to access this information for the purposes of this TDM Study was not granted. It is believed that information from this report would have provided valuable input to this study. 7. Public Transport Status Quo (Based On Literature Review) 7.1 Taxi The Mopani District Municipality has a total of 64 minibus taxi facilities. These taxi facilities are located as follows: Greater Tzaneen - 24 taxi facilities (2 formal); Ba-Phalaborwa - 11 taxi facilities (1 formal); Greater Letaba - 11 taxi facilities (4 formal - Modjadjiskloof, Ga-Kgapane, Sekgosese & Mokwakwaila); Greater Giyani – 18 taxi facilities. More than 85% of taxi facilities are informal without necessary facilities. Major public transport facilities in Mopani are summarized in the following table: Table 7.1: Major Public Transport Facilities in the Mopani District Facility Name Facility Status Ownership Tzaneen Pick „n Pay Minibus taxi rank Formal Private Tzaneen Sanlam Centre Minibus taxi rank Formal Private Phalaborwa Minibus taxi rank Formal Municipality (BPM) Modjadjiskloof Minibus taxi rank Formal Municipality (GLM) Giyani Shoprite Minibus taxi rank Formal Private Giyani Spar Minibus taxi rank Formal Private Giyani Score Minibus taxi rank Formal Municipality (GGM) SSI Engineers Page 4
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Rita Minibus taxi rank Informal Taxi Association Hoedspruit Minibus taxi rank Formal Municipality (MLM) The Oaks Minibus taxi rank Formal Municipality (MLM) Metz Minibus taxi rank Formal Municipality (MLM) 7.1.1 Taxi Associations The Taxi Associations, which control the minibus taxi operations in Mopani, are listed in the following table: Table 7.2: Taxi Associations in Mopani Maruleng LM Ba-Phalaborwa Greater Letaba Greater Tzaneen Greater Giyani LM LM LM LM The Oaks Taxi Phalaborwa Taxi Rotterdam Taxi Bakgakga Taxi Giyani Town Taxi Association. Association. Association. Association. Association. Lulekani Taxi Mooketsi Taxi Nkowankowa Taxi Nsami Taxi Association Association Association. Association Letaba Taxi Bolobedu Taxi Homu Taxi Association Association. Association Molototsi Taxi Pusela Taxi Giyani Taxi Association. Association Association N‟wamitwa Taxi Twananani 20 & 21 Association. Taxi Association Tzaneen – Hlaneki – Acornhoek Taxi Maswanganyi Taxi Association Association. Simajiku Taxi Association. Tiyimeleni Taxi Association. 7.2 Bus Table 7.3: Subsidised Bus Service Providers in Mopani District Municipality DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY SUBSIDISED OPERATORS MOPANI Risaba Bus Service Mathole Bus Service Great North Bus Service SSI Engineers Page 5
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 7.3 Rail The whole rail network in the Province is owned by Spoornet and serves only long distance passengers. There are no commuter rail services. The infrastructure is in relatively good condition. The following rail services are provided in Mopani District: Passenger Services: − Hoedspruit to Gauteng (via Nelspruit); Freight Services: − Polokwane to Maputo (via Tzaneen & Hoedspruit); − Phalaborwa to Richards Bay (via Hoedspruit & Nelspruit). 7.4 Air The following airports / landing strips are situated in the Mopani Municipal area: Hoedspruit (Maruleng) Airport – Gauteng, Cape Town; ZZ2 (GLM) Landing Strip – agricultural produce (tomatoes); Ba-Phalaborwa Landing Strip – mines; Eiland Landing Strip – tourism; Tzaneen Airport – agricultural produce; Siyandani (in Giyani) Landing Strip – shopping, mines, agriculture. 8. Road Infrastructure Status Quo (Based On Literature Review) The Spatial Development Initiative (SDI) roads support corridor development initiatives and these roads would link up with other provincial roads and also ultimately lead to the border posts and the Maputo corridor. There are four sub-corridors in the Limpopo province: Dilokong Sub-corridor; Phalaborwa Sub-corridor; Trans-Limpopo Sub-corridor; East-West Sub-corridor. Where-ever possible, development should be focused along transport corridors. The Strategic Corridors in Mopani District that were identified in the literature study are indicated in the following diagram: SSI Engineers Page 6
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Figure 8.1: Strategic Development Corridors in Mopani District The Phalaborwa Corridor in Mopani District is the major transport corridor in Mopani district and it connects Mpumalanga (Hazyview) with Phalaborwa and Tzaneen via smaller towns to the west of the Kruger National Park. The following two core routes form part of this corridor: Route sections P17/3-5, D726, P112/1-3, P43/2, D1308 and P54/1; Road section P146/1 from Klaserie to Blyde River, P116/1 from Hoedspruit to Ohrigstad via the Strijdom Tunnel, and P181/1 from the Oaks to Burgersfort. The status of the road network in the Mopani District is summarized in the following table: Table 8.1: Total Distances (km) of roads in the Mopani District Municipality Tarred roads (km) % Tarred Gravel roads (km) % Gravel Total Ba-Phalaborwa 211,37 46,3 245,3 53,7 456,67 Greater Tzaneen 419,6 40,7 611,85 59,3 1031,45 Greater Giyani 173,75 25,4 509,01 74,6 682,76 Greater Letaba 194,13 29,8 457,26 70,2 651,39 Maruleng 314,79 55,9 248,41 44,1 563,2 Mopani/Total 1313,64 38,8 2071,83 61,2 3385,47 Source: Road Management Systems (RAL, 2007) SSI Engineers Page 7
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 9. TDM Related Problems Identified (Based On Literature Review) 9.1 TDM Issues Identified in Mopani 9.1.1 Public Transport The following problems were identified in the literature: Too few taxis on rural roads; The transport system is inadequate to meet the basic accessibility needs (to work, health care, schools, shops) in many developing rural and urban areas; Transport services are not affordable for basic accessibility needs; Transport system is not flexible enough to respond to customer requirements; Infrastructure does not meet the needs of operators and customers. 9.1.2 Roads Problems identified in the literature include: Inadequate maintenance of gravel roads, particularly in rural areas; Inadequate road signage (route names, numbers, speed limits and distance signs); Inadequate fencing (wild and domestic animals on the roads); Road accidents; Vandalism of existing fences. 9.1.3 Road Safety Issues The following roads, where high traffic accident rates occur, were identified: George‟s Valley Road; Tzaneen to Mooketsi Road; Tzaneen to Lydenburg Road; Giyani to Mooketsi Road; Giyani to Dzumeri Road. 10. TDM Interventions Required (Based On Literature Review) 10.1 Transport The following public transport related Travel Demand Management interventions were identified: Develop new public transport routes in line with the Operating Licence Strategy (OLS); Develop inter-modal public transport facilities at the strategic nodal points; Implement low capital improvements at public transport ranks (e.g. lighting, street furniture, passenger information, etc.); SSI Engineers Page 8
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 To ensure the integration of all modes of transport; Develop an intra-provincial route coding system for taxi vehicles; Timetables, and route maps must be displayed at all public transport facilities; Improve network coverage and service frequency especially in rural areas; Improve access for special needs users; Plan land use to support public transport; Subsidize school trips longer than 5km; Promote the use of bicycles 10.2 Infrastructure The following infrastructure related Travel Demand Management interventions were identified: Upgrade Road Signs: − Implement name changes to towns, roads, and streets; − Replace aged and outdated road signs; − Replace road signs that do not conform to the SADC Road Traffic Signs Manual; − A comprehensive road sign upgrade project should be implemented; Congestion Management (in urban areas): − Traffic Signal Optimisation and Synchronization; − Traffic Signal Maintenance & Management; − Re-routing freight vehicles from congested areas; Road Access Management: − Access to developments and properties to be controlled − Access to comply with Municipal policies; Parking Management: − Maximize road user charges (high parking cost); − Restrict number of available parking bays; − Allow for special needs parking, bicycle racks, and motorcycle parking; − Designate on-street loading zones; − Car guards could be formalised as a form of job creation and provide change; − Alternatively parking payment machines must accommodate payment by both notes and credit cards; Road Network: − Develop a road network classification system. SSI Engineers Page 9
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 10.3 Non-motorized Transport (NMT) The following Non-motorized Transport related Travel Demand Management interventions were identified: Identify existing network facilities e.g. sidewalks, cycle paths and cycle lanes; − Prepare plan of bicycle paths and lanes; − Prioritize development and maintenance of sidewalks cycle paths and cycle lanes; − Encourage NMT where schools are within 5km radius; − Initiate publicity campaign to promote use of NMT; − Educate cyclists and pedestrians on their responsibilities; Upgrade NMT infrastructure: − Provide lighting to improve security; − Provide signage, route markers and information kiosks; − Provide pedestrian crossings; − Upgrade intersection treatments; − Provide bicycle parking; − Install traffic calming; Investigate pedestrian only streets; Investigate potential for bicycle taxis and pedi-cabs. 10.4 Institutional The following Institutional related Travel Demand Management interventions were identified: Stagger working and school hours; Regional importance of CBD / inner city should be recognized; SMMEs in the rural transport sector, particularly new entrants from previously disadvantaged communities, to be nurtured. A guideline linking rural road and transport planning processes to be developed; Rural transport interventions to be co-ordinated. 11. Stakeholder Consultation 11.1 Introduction As discussed in the previous section, stakeholder consultation was undertaken in July 2010. All notes were combined and analysed (All notes are included in Annexure C). The following broad categories were identified as relevant for this District Municipality: SSI Engineers Page 10
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 11.1.1 Road network management system: Road network management (does management system exist?) Road marking maintenance Sufficient road signs and maintenance (sign management system?) Fencing of road reserve (for cattle) 11.1.2 Public transport Sufficient frequency and coverage of public transport in rural areas Sufficient infrastructure, i.e. ranks, bays, shelters, toilets and signage Consider HOV lanes in larger urban areas only on main routes (e.g. Tzaneen to Rita) Consider intermodal public transport facilities – require adequate land provision, can have facilities for passengers at one place instead of many, makes it easier for passengers to transfer, also safer with high volumes of passengers 11.1.3 NMT NMT infrastructure on frequented routes Adequate lighting Cycle ways on frequented routes NMT at schools, try and locate schools on same side of road as community. Where not possible look at providing safe crossing for learners i.e. raised pedestrian crossing, scholar patrol, traffic calming 11.1.4 Awareness and communication Provide traffic/transport information frequently to the public via newspapers, advertisements and broadcast on the radio All the notes were then grouped according to these categories. These categories best describe the concerns of the stakeholders. 11.2 Road Network Cattle on roads are a problem in the whole Mopani, fences are stolen. There is a pound in Giyani which has never been used. This problem is particularly serious at the following locations: − Section D of Kremetart; − Giyani to Letsitele; − Mooketsi to Giyani (via Maphalle); − Burgersdorp to The Oaks (existing fences on game farm side of road only); − Lwamondokop Road. Roads are poorly constructed and maintained with plenty of potholes, a lot of potholes on road from Dzumeri to Letsitele SSI Engineers Page 11
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Poor standard of pothole repair e.g. potholes on Sapekoe Drive (R36) in Tzaneen, have been repaired twice in the last six months and they are still a problem. This is an important route Road marking maintenance should be improved, better materials should be used (currently road markings do not last) Not sufficient road signs, lack of warning road signage at approaches to residential areas Two hospitals are located in Giyani with the speed humps between the hospitals removed however trenches were left in the road The following roads have been pointed out (problems with condition of road): − Giyani to Siyandani & Khakhala (very bad condition gravel road with sharp stones- high priority); − Giyani to Shishosana (high priority); − Road from Giyani to Mapayeni is in a very bad condition, part of it is tarred, it has deep potholes and is too narrow – no shoulders, it was badly constructed and deteriorated within a year, open drain on the side(construction is under way with this road but only for 2.5 km); − Gravel road in a bad condition between Rubbervale and Gravelotte (±15km); − Dzumeri to Mzilela; − Dzumeri to Nwamarhanga (will make it easier to get to Phalaborwa); − Giyani to Muswani; − Giyani to Mavalani/Nwadzekudzeku; A stall that is located close to Mooketsi encroaches on the road, interfering with road users‟ movement, it is important to prohibit stalls from illegally locating inside the road reserve; There is dangerous bend in Giyani (see Figure 11.1 and Figure 11.2) located south east of the traffic circle, improve the safety of this bend by i.e. adding appropriate signage and possibly other road safety features that can make it safer by reducing the speed of traffic; In Giyani investigate the possibility of linking the access road to SPAR to the signalized intersection; SSI Engineers Page 12
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Figure 11.1: Dangerous bend in Giyani southeast of traffic circle (location) Figure 11.2: Dangerous bend in Giyani southeast of traffic circle (enlarged) With regards to road improvements: SSI Engineers Page 13
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 − Reduce travel distance by tarring road to Thohoyandou via Vuwani; − The gravel road from Thomo Village to Hlomela is in a bad condition. It is proposed to upgrade this road. This road can assist people from Gaula, Ndindani, Mahlathi and Khakhala to travel between Giyani and Phalaborwa; Provision of scholar transport is difficult in areas served by gravel roads that are in poor condition; Rural roads are generally not tarred; hinders public transport to rural areas. Bakkies are used to go into these areas that have gravel roads. At the traffic circle in Giyani the signage requires improvement. The geometric layout should be assessed by a geometric engineer; At the road from Polokwane to the R529 (at Sikhunyane villages) rumble strips can assist at the T-junction, currently a dangerous intersection. 11.3 Traffic Signals Traffic signals in Giyani need attention (according to the stakeholders Aurecon has been appointed for this work). This road is owned by Roads Agency Limpopo. Congestion is experienced in Giyani on the road leading to FNB from the taxi rank. Traffic movements along this road will have to be reviewed once the traffic signal has been changed; Faulty traffic signals – most traffic signals in Tzaneen are in flashing mode all day (this does not comply with the requirements of SA Traffic Signs Manual Vol 3 – flashing mode is not acceptable as part of normal signal phasing); The Tzaneen access on the Polokwane to Phalaborwa Road is congested and the installation of traffic signals at this intersection should be considered. 11.4 Public Transport Generally throughout Mopani District there is a lack of public transport facilities; Too few taxi ranks in Giyani and Tzaneen, no toilets at ranks; Larger taxis can‟t fit under existing roofs, roof too low for 22- seater taxis at Tzaneen rank; Access problem to Tzaneen rank in peak periods; There are 4 taxi ranks in Giyani, insufficient off-loading places. These ranks are: − Shoprite Taxi rank; − Metro taxi rank; − Old spar taxi rank; − Main taxi rank; Recommendation to construct shelters at taxi lay byes – passengers will then wait for public transport automatically at demarcated places; SSI Engineers Page 14
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Investigate the feasibility of an intermodal public transport facility in Giyani. Public transport facilities are congested at the Giyani bus terminal to Malamulele around the Shoprite Taxi rank; There is a shortage of public transport to Muyexe (piloted for rural development); In Giyani not enough loading bays for busses, conflict occurs with long distance minibus-taxi and bus services due to competition for passengers. Insufficient bus ranks – buses stop everywhere and hinder the flow of traffic; Lack of taxis in remote rural areas (on gravel roads); Long walking distance to access public transport pick-up points in most areas of Bolobedu (around mountains); Public Transport demand in Hoedspruit is seasonal and not subsidised. During harvesting demand for public transport exceeds supply. (Mango, citrus, tomatoes). Employers hire many workers, with approximately 70% coming from the Acornhoek area, during that period (May to Sept – citrus, Dec to Jan – mangos). There is a need for additional investment and/or subsidization of public transport in the area; There are no taxi ranks in Hoedspruit and no amenities; There is minimal public transport in Hoedspruit in the off peak. Taxi frequencies during off peak periods are also low. 11.5 NMT In Giyani a pedestrian crossing problem has been identified on the main access into town between the existing traffic signals on the R81, (from SPAR to Shoprite). A new traffic signal or a raised pedestrian crossing was proposed. After a site visit it is proposed to accommodate pedestrians at the existing traffic signal, due to the proximity of the adjacent traffic signals and the already congested nature of this specific part of town; In Giyani the bicycle mode of transport should be promoted despite the challenge when it is raining; At Nkomo the school and the community are separated by the road; Problems with scholars crossing the road at the Kwangulatilo Tembe School at the 4 way stop. Drivers are not disciplined and ignore the stop sign. Investigate other options to increase road safety for learners, i.e. traffic calming measures like a raised pedestrian crossing or lowering speeds of vehicles with replacing the 4 way stop with a traffic circle. A scholar patrol should also be considered; There is a T-junction at the road to Siyandani on the Malamulele road which needs a pedestrian crossing; Sidewalks are needed at the FNB Bank and at the Nursing College in Giyani; Pedestrian sidewalks are needed on the Mphakathi to Madumeleni Road; SSI Engineers Page 15
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Pedestrians cross the road at Mokgolobotho village mainly during the afternoon and there are accidents. There is need for a safe pedestrian crossing. 11.6 Law Enforcement and Road Safety A stall that is located close to Mooketsi encroaches on the road, interfering with road users‟ movement, it is important to prohibit stalls from illegally locating inside the road reserve; Many motorists do not obey stop controlled intersections. In particular taxis do not stop at the Letaba / Nkowankowa intersection; There is a shortage of traffic enforcement equipment; Roads with high accident rates which should be investigated in detail, are: − Intersection of Sapekoe Drive (R36) & Pusela Street (4 way stop); − Intersection of Sapekoe Drive (R36) & Rietbok Street (4 way stop); − R36 (Tzaneen to Burgersdorp) – known as “Road of Death” – high traffic volumes – narrow – no yellow lines – poor maintenance – serious drainage problems – animals & pedestrians on road (25 to 35 km long). This road requires urgent upgrading; − R528 (Georges Valley) – unexpected S-bends – lack of road signage (warning signs & low gear signs needed), fatalities were reported – problems are lack of maintenance (overgrown verges, signs covered by foliage, lack of signs etc); − R36 Mooketsi to Munnik – approx. 20 km long – mountainous area with high accident rates – theft of loads from slow-moving vehicles; − Deer Park junction – This junction has stop control on the Deer Park approach. Due to heavy traffic volume on the main road, side road traffic is delayed, particularly in the morning peak period. Consideration should be given to upgrading the intersection to improve safety. Traffic signals or a traffic circle should be investigated. − Manouvlei – lack of maintenance; − Tarentaal Road – lack of maintenance – overgrown. Improve road safety at the Oasis Hotel area where pedestrians are vulnerable due to reckless driving. 11.7 Awareness and Communication Make the public aware as far as possible about all transport information in the district municipality and conduct campaigns for certain specific items i.e. road safety, public transport scheduling, new NMT infrastructure and road upgrades. SSI Engineers Page 16
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 11.8 Schools At Nkomo the school and community are separated by a road and learners need to cross the road to access the school. In the interests of safety, good planning should avoid permitting physical barriers (a road in this case) crossing pedestrian desire lines or dividing communities; Problems with scholars crossing the road at the Kwangulatilo Tembe School at the 4 way stop, drivers are not disciplined at the 4 way stop. Investigate other options to increase road safety for learners, i.e. traffic calming measures like a raised pedestrian crossing or lowering speeds of vehicles by replacing the 4 way stop with a traffic circle. A scholar patrol should also be considered. 12. Recommendations Generally, it has become clear that detailed Travel Demand Management studies need to be undertaken at district and local municipality level in respect of Tzaneen. This will enable street by street surveys and resultant detailed strategies to be developed. An analysis of all the information gathered including the physical observation of identified areas of TDM concern resulted in the following recommendations: A proper RNMS (road network management system) for future year periods (i.e. 5 year periods) should be introduced and maintained. The system will prioritize all roads requiring maintenance (i.e. fencing, road markings, road signs, pavement maintenance) or upgrading (road widening, new surfacing). It will then be possible to determine when a particular section of road will require attention and will allow accurate budgeting for expenditure on upgrading and maintaining the road network in the most efficient manner. A traffic engineer should analyze the traffic demand in Tzaneen and prepare optimum traffic signal timing plans for traffic signal controlled intersections. A proper public transport demand study should be undertaken to determine an adequate public transport route network, size of fleet required, location and size of ranks/intermodal facilities and schedules. Adequate communication to the public transport users should be taken into consideration. A Non Motorized Transport Planning study for Mopani District should be undertaken to cater for all NMT facilities and services. This study should include all the main towns such as Giyani, Tzaneen, Hoedspruit, Phalaborwa and Modjadjiskloof. Road safety awareness should be improved and a detailed study that will address the current road safety issues and concerns should be conducted. A road safety plan should be prepared and communicated through road shows. There is a need for a Public Transport Demand study to be conducted to determine public transport requirements, route network, facilities and the effectiveness and efficiency of the current system. SSI Engineers Page 17
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 A detailed Travel Demand Management study needs to be conducted for Tzaneen on a street by street basis. The road between Tzaneen and Burgersdorp needs to be widened and maintained. Provide HOV lane to mitigate the congestion and accidents. Implement traffic calming at bend on main access road south east of traffic circle at entrance to Giyani. Fencing of roads to prevent stray animals. Provide sufficient bus ranking facilities in Giyani. Improve quality of work on the repair of potholes throughout the district. Traffic signals in Giyani need attention. Provide public transport facilities and amenities in Hoedspruit. Public transport in Hoedspruit needs government support to cater for seasonal demand fluctuations. We recommend the contracting and subsidisation with bus services. The Deerpark junction outside Tzaneen on the road to Phalaborwa requires traffic lights to assist traffic coming to Tzaneen from Deerpark, particularly in the mornings. A traffic circle or traffic lights on the Tzaneen to Aqua Park and Polokwane to Phalaborwa roads junction is recommended. The permanent flashing traffic lights in Tzaneen should be addressed as it is in contravention with the spirit of the law. It should be noted that not all the recommendations may have been included in the above list. There may be additional recommendations in the body of the text in previous sections of the report. In order to address these issues, a series of detailed Business Plans have been developed. These Plans are listed in the following section of this report. SSI Engineers Page 18
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Annexure A Existing Taxi Facilities in Mopani (Documented) SSI Engineers Page 19
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Greater Tzaneen Municipality Taxi Facilities Rank Location Type Facilities Destinations Peak Periods Julesburg (via On-street R36 Informal Ofcolaco), Nkowankowa Morning & Off Burgersdorp (Tzaneen to None terminus and Tzaneen (via Peak Lydenburg Rd). Bridgeway) On-street R36 Gabaza (Tzaneen to Informal Morning & Off Lydenburg Rd). None Letsitele (via Mafarana) terminus Peak Opposite Burgersdorp Rank Lenyenye On-street Informal Tzaneen, Phalaborwa Morning & Off Lenyenye entrance Car wash terminus and Metz Peak opposite garage. Leolo Informal Lenyenye (via Rakoma) Morning & Off Leolo Settlement taxi & None and Lenyenye Peak bus Lephepane Lephepane near Informal None LTR TRL & Tzaneen - market place Mulati, Mafarana, Ntsako, Bonn, Sedan, 7 loading platforms Gabaza and (without shelters or Burgersdorp seats), an office, Letsitele destinations (via D8 Off-street Letsitele Formal toilets (maintained Off Peak & TRL (see base map)), CBD 475m2. by the Tzaneen afternoon Giyani and Eiland Local Municipality) destinations (via D1267 and an informal car and P43 TRL) and wash nearby. Nkowankowa (via Mariveni - D5011 TRL). Tzaneen from On-street (near the Bindzulani shopping intersection of Letaba Cross Informal None centre, Dan and Lusaka Early Morning roads D673 and settlements (use R36). R36/P17). On-street (on road Letaba D673 opposite N‟wamitwa (use the Hospital (E) Letaba Special Informal None D673 TRL /D 1292 TRL Not busy School and Letaba (see base map)). Hospital). Nkowankowa, Gabaza Letaba Off-street (public and Burgersdorp (via Paved with 30 Hospital (W) parking area at the Bridgeway (use D673 & Informal demarcated parking - entrance of Letaba R36.) bays. Hospital) Mafarana On-street rank at Mulati, Bonn, Sedan the entrance of Informal None and Letsitele (use road Mafarana D8 to access Letsitele SSI Engineers Page 20
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 (intersection of CBD area). roads D8 and MLB TRL/NBS TRL (see base map)). Mandlakazi. Mokgwathi on-street in (via Shihoko), Thapane N‟wamitwa None (except the pit- N‟wamitwa near and Tzaneen (use informal latrines which the N‟wamitwa roads belong to the rank) Head Kraal. D3247/D1292/P43 to Tzaneen). On-street( in Madumane on the Tzaneen (via Madumane road splitting to Mutupa/Relela) (use Morning & off Informal None Morapalala, road D1350 to peak Mohokgo Block 6 Tzaneen) and Pakong.) Moime on-street at the Tzaneen (town?) via morning & off South entrance to informal None Bridgeway (use peak Moime Village R36/P17) On-street at Mokgwathi at the Tzaneen (via Mokgwathi T-Junction of the Merekome), N‟wamitwa informal None - road from (via Shihoko) and Merekome and Hlohlokwe (via Mawa). D319. Very busy Motupa/Relela on-street at Tzaneen using road during the informal None Mutupa Village. D1350. morning & off- peak periods. Mamitwa, Letsitele, Nkambako on-street at Tzaneen and Giyani. Nkambako Risaba informal None (use D1267 to Giyani, - junction Letsitele and Tzaneen via Tarentaal). Tzaneen, Phalaborwa, Burgersdorp, Mamitwa, Informal very busy Letsitele, Petanenge, Nkowankowa on street at High taxi & during Letaba Hospital and point business bus None morning peak Giyani. ( use R36/P17 area transfer period for to Tzaneen and D5011 station Tzaneen to Letsitele) Commuter rank. On-street in Khujwana (future Nwamahori rank near the Tzaneen on R36/P17 informal None - Peace Makers road (from Khujwana) Football Club Soccer Field.) Petanenge on the entrance of Nkowankowa & informal None Not busy Petanenge coming Tzaneen (via Mhlava & SSI Engineers Page 21
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 from Nkowankowa Sasekani) on R36. side under the marula tree. Very busy during morning peak -rank stops Rita 1 On-street C.N. operatingat Informal None Tzaneen (via R36) Phatudi. 15h00 At night some taxis use garage opposite as a holding area. On-street Turn off Rita 2 Letsitele (via Lefara & to Letsitele via Informal None Zangoma) on road Not busy Lefaro/Zangoma D3766. from the R36 road. Muruji Tzaneen (via Deerpark Morning peak On-street Informal None Rd on D978) & off peak. 11 loading platforms busy during with shelters & some Nkowankowa, Dan, the off peak & seating (not Lusaka, Mokgolobotho, Off-street Next to very busy Thapane Formal sufficient in peaks) Khujwana, Lephephane, Sanlam Centre during the Public toilets in Lenyenye, Tickeyline afternoon shopping centre (use P17/R36) peak 3934 m2. Long Distance: Boyne, Polokwane, Johannesburg, Giyani, Pretoria. Local: Tzaneen Off-street Sanlam 14 loading platforms, Modjadjiskloof, Very busy in Sanlam Centre next to Pick two separate loading Kgapane, Off Peak & Centre Formal „n Pay shopping areas (local & long Motupa/Relela, Afternoon mall distance) 4763 m2 N‟wamitwa, Acornhoek, Peak ost utilized route is D978 via Deerpark & P43/3 via D1292 to N‟wamitwa. Tzaneen Pick Polokwane (via Off-street „n Pay George‟s Valley & Morning peak Pick „n Pay Transfer Makgoebaskloof) until 16h00 station use D528 & P17 Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality Taxi Facilities Peak Rank Location Type Facilities Destinations Periods Akanani Acornhoek, Morning Off-street in Lukelani next to Informal None Namakgale, peak & off Akanani shopping centre. Johannesburg, peak SSI Engineers Page 22
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Giyani, Makhutswe, Tzaneen and N‟wamitwa (use D762 to Bushbuckridge & P112 to Namakgale) Lukelani On-street One concrete Phalaborwa (use on entrance of Lukelani from informal shelter Off peak P112 road) Phalaborwa/Namakgale structure. On-street near the soccer Majeje field in the Majeje area. The Phalaborwa (use Morning minibus taxi rank will be Informal None P112) peak moved to a new place in the future Operates Makhushana Phalaborwa (use morning On-street informal None D390, D2105 and peak and D86) off peak only. Maseke On-street at the entrance to Phalaborwa (use Busy Maseke from road D3786 Informal None D3786, D762, D2105 morning & Shared Taxi & Bus and D86). off peak Phalaborwa (use Mashishimale busy road MMN TRL (see On-street at Mashishimale informal None morning & base map) joining off peak P112/1) Mica/Acornhoek On-street next to the T- Bushbuckridge, De busy junction of oads D3790 and informal None Oaks and Makhutswe morning & D762. (use D762). off peak On-street (temporary – Makhutswi, Tzaneen, busy off Mondzweni stand available for future off- Informal None Nkowankowa and peak street rank) Giyani. There are some facilities in the form of On-street at the entrance of toilets and Lukelani and busy Namakgale Namakgale on P112/1 Informal shelters Phalaborwa morning & Tzaneen/Gravelotte road. provided and (use P112/1) off peak maintained by the Municipality. busy from Johannesburg, the On-street next to Giyani, Makhutswi, morning Tzaneen Informal None Namakgale entrance Tzaneen and peak until Selwana. (use P112) early afternoon SSI Engineers Page 23
TDM Study – Mopani District Municipality Project #: T01.POL.000005 September 2010 Greater Letaba Municipality Peak Rank Location Type Facilities Destinations Periods Phaphadi, Maphalle, Skhimmini, Mooketsi , Louis shelter, loading On-street at Trichardt, (via Morebeng), bays, office and Modjadjiskloof Tzaneen Pick n Pay rank, Ga Modjadjiskloof ablution blocks. Busy shopping complex. – Kgapane, Sekgopo, Giyani Formal The condition of throughout Biggest minibus taxi score complex, Rotterdam, ablution blocks the day rank in Greater Sekgosese, Polokwane Pick is not Letaba n Pay rank, Sapekoe satisfactory. Middlekop minibus taxi (use Tzaneen route). Mokwakwaila, Tzaneen Pick „n Pay rank, Polokwane Pick shelter, loading „n Pay rank (via Mooketsi), busiest Ga-Kgapane bays, ablution Ga-Kgapane, Modjadjiskloof, during Off street at Ga- Formal blocks (still Johannesburg, Sehlakong, morning and Kgapane Township under Medingen. (most utilized afternoon construction). route is Tzaneen) peaks Off-street at Mooketsi complex. Modjadjiskloof, Phaphadi & Mooketsi At junction of two Sekgopo. busy during main roads: Giyani Informal None the morning – Mooketsi rd & (most utilized route is peak Modjadjiskloof – Modjadjiskloof) Polokwane rd. Ga-Kgapane via Mooketsi On-street at Ga- Sekgopo Modjadjiskloof & has several busy during Sekgopo village on Informal None pick – up points. (most the morning Modjadjiskloof – utilized route is peak Polokwane road. Modjadjiskloof) The rank has busy during Sekgosese facilities but are on street at Modjadjiskloof, Makhado and the morning Formal not sufficient Sekgosese village. Polokwane. & afternoon and not in good peak condition. Ga – Kgapane, Skhimmini Mokwakwaila off – street at shelter, loading (Shayamoriri via Skhimmini) busy during Mokwakwaila formal bays and public Lebaka Cross, the morning village. phones Ramotshinyadi and Abel. peak (most utilized Mokwakwaila) Giyani, Mokwakwaila, Ga- Skhimini busy during on-street rank at Kgapane and Phaphadi. Informal None the morning Skhimini village (busiest route is peak Mokwakwaila) on-street at Modjadjiskloof via Mooketsi. busy during Maphalle informal None Maphalle village on (busiest route is the morning SSI Engineers Page 24
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